Family claims East West University student Mushfiq’s death was ‘murder’
Habibur Rahman, officer-in-charge (OC) of Badda Police Station, said no case has yet been filed by the family or the university.
The family of Mushfiq Uzzaman, a student of East West University in Dhaka, has alleged that his death was a "planned murder," rejecting the initial police assumption of suicide.
Speaking to the media today (23 November), Mushfiq's father, Mukhlesuzzaman, said, "They first beat him inside a room and broke his leg. The belt tore when they tried to lift him. Then they dumped the body. We have heard that his body and skin colour were mocked. If that is true, those who forced my son into such a situation must be punished for provocation."
Mushfiq's body was recovered on 20 November from the space between two buildings on the university campus in Aftabnagar.
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He was a first-year, second-semester student, living with his parents near Khilgaon Police Station.
Mushfiq's uncle, Moniruzzaman Monir, also claimed it was a murder. "Someone weighing 127 kg jumping from a high-rise would show major signs of impact. And it is nearly impossible to climb over a six-foot railing to commit suicide. There was no family conflict or personal issue that could lead him to this."
He also noted allegations of body shaming, "His manner of speaking was a bit different, and some criticised him for being dark-skinned and healthy. But he didn't bother about it."
Meanwhile, students of East West University today staged a sit-in protest with a five-point demand. Their demands include forming an investigation committee comprising students and teachers and making the report public; releasing CCTV footage; ensuring justice if a murder is proven, or clarifying the cause if it is suicide; identifying and punishing anyone involved in bullying; and organising mental health seminars every semester.
Habibur Rahman, officer-in-charge (OC) of Badda Police Station, said no case has yet been filed by the family or the university.
"If the autopsy report indicates anything unusual, we will open an investigation," he said.
He added that preliminary assessment suggests suicide. "CCTV footage shows that no one else went to the rooftop an hour before or after Mushfiq. He went up alone and jumped."
